He said: “He presses an alarm that calls the carer if I need help. He takes my jacket and my gloves off in the winter and he helps remove my blankets if I get too hot at night. He also opens and closes doors for me.

“He’s also been practising pressing the buttons at traffic lights. Having Ralph by my side has not only made me more independent, he has made me a lot healthier.

“I am no longer anxious or in and out of hospital constantly. I don’t know if it’s the fresh air I’m getting or the fact I now have a purpose in life and someone else to worry about.”

Paul will soon be moving into his own specially-adapted flat with Ralph.